The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced an exclusive 9-day, 8-night tour package to Japan, timed for the popular cherry blossom season. Named "JAPAN- THE CHERRY BLOSSOM SEASON EX. LUCKNOW," the comprehensive itinerary is designed for Indian travellers seeking to explore five iconic Japanese destinations.
Package Details and Cost
The tour package is scheduled to run from April 8 to April 16, 2025, accommodating a total of 36 passengers. Pricing for the package varies based on occupancy:
- Double/Triple Sharing: ₹3,33,400 per person
- Single Occupancy: ₹3,42,800 per person
- Child with Bed (5-11 years): ₹3,33,400
- Child Without Bed (5-11 years): ₹2,88,100
These costs include a 5% Tax Collected at Source (TCS), which will be deposited into the client's income tax account and may be claimed as a refund as per income tax regulations.
What's Included in Your Japan Tour
The IRCTC package aims to provide a hassle-free travel experience, bundling several key services:
- Return economy class airfare on Air India from Lucknow to Narita and back.
- Accommodation in 3-star equivalent hotels (e.g., T mark city hotel Tokyo Omori, Fujisan Garden hotel, Sarasa Hotel, Apa Hotel Hiroshima, or similar).
- All entry tickets for sightseeing locations as per the detailed itinerary.
- An AP (American Plan) meal package, including daily continental buffet breakfasts at hotels and lunches and dinners at Indian restaurants. Please note, meals are pre-set with no menu choice.
- Services of a professional, English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.
- Overseas travel insurance for tourists aged between 6 months and 70 years.
- Normal Japan visa fees, GST, and the 5% TCS amount.
Itinerary Highlights: 9 Days Across Japan
The 8-night, 9-day tour covers a vibrant mix of Japan's cultural, historical, and scenic attractions:
- Day 1: Departure from Lucknow, connecting through Delhi to Tokyo.
- Day 2-3: Explore Tokyo, including major city sights.
- Day 4: Travel from Tokyo to the scenic Fuji region.
- Day 5: Discover Kyoto and Osaka.
- Day 6: Journey from Osaka to Hiroshima.
- Day 7: Explore Hiroshima before returning to Tokyo.
- Day 8: Further sightseeing in Tokyo.
- Day 9: Departure from Tokyo back to Lucknow.
Important Exclusions and Disclaimers
While comprehensive, certain expenses are not covered by the package. These include any increase in airfare, airport taxes, or fuel surcharges, tips for drivers and guides, and personal expenses such as laundry, specific beverages, or activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
Travellers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions, especially regarding visa applications. IRCTC explicitly states that it holds no responsibility for visa rejections, and no refunds will be provided in such cases. The travel insurance included in the package also has exclusions, particularly for pre-existing medical conditions like cancer, cardiac ailments, or diabetes. Passengers are urged to thoroughly check the insurance policy details before booking.
Cancellation charges are applicable based on proximity to the departure date, ranging from 20% for cancellations 30 days prior to 100% for cancellations within 8 days or no-shows.
Required Documents for Japan Visa
Applicants must submit a range of documents, including a passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages, previous passports, a duly filled and signed Japan visa application form, and two recent 45x45mm passport-size photographs with a white background. A covering letter detailing the purpose and duration of the visit, addressed to the Consulate General of Japan, Chennai, is also required. Financial documents such as bank statements, ITRs for the last three years, and proof of occupation are mandatory.
Prospective travellers are encouraged to coordinate with the IRCTC office for a full briefing on the tour details to avoid any confusion.